A morning bike ride to the library. Swimming at the public pool. Popsicles on the porch after dinner. Yep, Spokane is in full summer mode. And while we hope kids are savoring every moment, we know that their adults may already be planning (dare we say, longing …) for back-to-school season.
While general classroom supplies like pencils, glue, crayons, scissors, markers and tissue are provided by Spokane Public Schools, several community organizations are hosting no-cost distribution events to connect students with additional resources for a successful start to the new school year.
Not sure what additional items may be on your student’s school supply list? Check your school’s website to find grade-specific lists: Elementary Schools, Middle Schools, High Schools, Option Schools.
Check out the list below for upcoming events. Some organizations may also be seeking donations and volunteers. Please contact them directly to inquire.
If you know of other local school supply distributions that aren’t included on this list, please let us know via Let’s Talk.
NO-COST SCHOOL SUPPLIES DISTRIBUTION EVENTS
Please note that these events are organized by local businesses and organizations that are not affiliated with or endorsed by Spokane Public Schools. This list is solely intended as an optional resource for Spokane families.
Kids Free Market: Saturday, July 27, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
True Hope Church, 1316 N Lincoln St.
Face painting, backpacks to giveaway, haircuts, treats, and other free items for kids.
Backpack Giveaway: Saturday, July 27, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Cellular Plus (Spokane South), 914 E Mission Ave.
Free backpacks with school supplies. A child must be present with an adult to claim. One per child, while supplies last.
2024 Community Celebration: Saturday, Aug. 10, 12-3:30 p.m.
Underhill Park, 2910 E Hartson Ave.
The Way to Justice and SERA are hosting a community celebration with a bike raffle, contests, prizes, free food and drinks, plus giveaways for free shoes, backpacks, and school supplies. To participate in receiving supplies, please pre-register by calling 509-822-7514. Children must be present at event to receive supplies.
15th Annual Backpacks for Kids: Wednesday, Aug. 14, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The Salvation Army, 222 E. Indiana Ave.
All 4,000 backpacks will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Parents or guardians will need to bring the following items:
Photo ID of parent/guardian
Proof of every child in the household (School registration, DSHS statement, ID card for each student, medical card, etc.)
Event also includes a community vendor fair, food and drinks, and appearances by local professional sport and college mascots.
Unity in the Community: Saturday, Aug. 17, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Riverfront Park, Downtown Spokane
1,200 bags of school supplies while they last. Families will collect stamps on their passport in the Cultural Village. Present completed passports to receive a free bag of supplies. A child with a parent/guardian must be present to collect supplies. Bicycle helmets will also be available, while supplies last.
Back to School One Heart Spokane: Saturday, Aug. 17, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Real Life Spokane, 10101 N Nevada St.
One Heart Center, 1827 E Pacific Ave.
West Central Community Center, 1603 N Belt St.
Free shoes and socks, haircuts, lunch, carnival activities, and more while supplies last. School-age children must be present to receive shoes.
Back to School Fair at Hillyard Farmer’s Market: Monday, Aug. 19, 3-6 p.m.
Northeast Community Center, 4001 N Cook St.
Free music, raffles, a Kids' ZONE, free backpacks and school supplies, and more.